Any advice for an aspiring commercial composer?

[balaperdida]

I've run a small project studio in San Antonio, TX for the past few years with enough success to survive and acquire an embarrassment of gear, but I'm finding that the work I enjoy most is scoring films and commercials. So far I have only done small-potatoes things (indy films, local commercials), but I'd like to grow my business in this direction, even if it ultimately requires moving.

Are there any composers working in smaller markets like mine who might offer some advice on finding business? Do I need an agent or attorney to shop my demo a la record biz of yesteryear? Is a developing a strong web presence and getting in touch with local advertising firms all one can do? Any thoughts are most welcome.

[mbradzick]

A friend of mine worked his ass off in a jingle house for a couple years and just built up his clientele. No first hand experience for me although it doesn't seem to be a bad way to make ends.